"No."
Emily's voice was firm.
Stronger than before.
"You're not going alone."
Alexander didn't even hesitate.
"I am."
Emily stepped closer.
"No, you're not."
The tension in the room shifted instantly.
Different from before.
Not emotional.
Strategic.
"You don't walk into something like that without control," she continued.
"You're playing his game."
Alexander's eyes darkened slightly.
"I always control the game."
Emily shook her head.
"Not this time."
Silence.
For a few seconds, neither moved.
Then Emily said quietly:
"He wants you isolated."
Alexander didn't respond.
Because he knew she was right.
Emily took one more step closer.
"Then we don't give him what he wants."
Alexander studied her.
Long.
Carefully.
Then finally:
"What are you suggesting?"
Emily's voice lowered.
"We go together."